Dolphins Sign Kicker Zane Gonzalez to One-Year Deal

3 months agoUS
Dolphins Sign Kicker Zane Gonzalez to One-Year DealSource: sports.yahoo.com
The Miami Dolphins have addressed their kicking needs by signing Zane Gonzalez to a one-year deal. This move comes after the release of veteran Jason Sanders and aims to solidify the team's special teams unit heading into the 2026 season.

Key Insights

Zane Gonzalez, 30, has agreed to a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins.

Gonzalez spent the latter half of the 2025 season with the Atlanta Falcons, making 19 of 22 field goals.

He will replace former Dolphins kicker Jason Sanders, who was released due to injury.

Gonzalez has experience with the Dolphins' new special teams coordinator, Chris Tabor, from their time together with the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers.

The Dolphins are reshaping their special teams unit, also needing to find a punter after Jake Bailey signed with the Falcons.

Why this matters: The Dolphins needed a reliable kicker after releasing Sanders. Gonzalez provides a veteran presence and recent success in the league, which is crucial for close games.

In-Depth Analysis

The Dolphins' decision to sign Zane Gonzalez reflects a strategic move to revamp their special teams. After releasing Jason Sanders to save cap space, Miami needed a capable replacement. Gonzalez, with his recent stint with the Falcons, showcased his ability to perform under pressure, converting 86% of his field goal attempts.

This signing also reunites Gonzalez with Chris Tabor, the Dolphins' new special teams coordinator. Their previous collaborations in Cleveland and Carolina suggest a level of familiarity and trust that could translate to immediate improvements in the kicking game. The Dolphins are also in the market for a new punter after Jake Bailey signed with the Falcons, indicating a comprehensive overhaul of their special teams unit.

Furthermore, the Dolphins also re-signed tight end Greg Dulcich, signed quarterback Malik Willis, and traded safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. These moves indicate a busy period for the Dolphins as they prepare for the upcoming season.

FAQs

Q: Why did the Dolphins release Jason Sanders?

Jason Sanders was released to save $3.9 million toward the salary cap after suffering a hip injury in the 2025 preseason.

Q: How did Zane Gonzalez perform with the Falcons last season?

Gonzalez made 19 of 22 field goal attempts and 17 of 18 extra points in nine games with the Falcons.

Q: Who is Chris Tabor?

Chris Tabor is the new special teams coordinator for the Miami Dolphins. He previously worked with Zane Gonzalez in Cleveland and Carolina.

Key Takeaways

The Dolphins have secured a veteran kicker in Zane Gonzalez to replace Jason Sanders.

Gonzalez brings recent experience and a proven track record, having performed well with the Falcons.

The Dolphins are revamping their special teams unit under new coach Jeff Hafley and special teams coordinator Chris Tabor.

Keep an eye on further special teams changes as the Dolphins also need to find a new punter.

Discussion

What do you think of the Dolphins' decision to sign Zane Gonzalez? Will he be a reliable kicker for the team? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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